Spouting off

 How did we arrive at the conclusion that the majority decision should always be in favor of the minority ? That is to say, how come being in a majority now gets you labeled a bigot ? I'm sorry, but that is the impression I have been getting lately. I can't say when this started taking root exactly, maybe it started with allowing the flag to be worn as clothing, or support for burning draft cards. Maybe it has something to do with Roe v Wade. All I know is I'm getting concerned for our country. You can't have a nation without nationality ! It appears being patriotic and having the best national interest in mind is wrong. Now before you go off thinking I'm a Trump supporter let me nip that in the bud. I am not. I do support my country and her values. That being said, that is where this issue lies.
 Everyone agrees uncontrolled immigration, open borders, is not a feasible way to run a country. At the same time we are calling folks racists, bigots and any number of names for not allowing that practice. Should you support deporting the illegal entrants you will be labeled ! No doubt about that is there ? Even suggesting that the proper papers be shown is considered discriminatory. I remember when getting my drivers license how it was stressed what a privilege that was. Now, it is being given to illegal immigrants because why ? I don't know you tell me. They have earned that privilege by sneaking across the border ?  Also the reason they should get food stamps and medical care ? Oh but I'm a bigot for saying that right ? They are just trying to escape from their homeland and seeking refuge in America. Yeah, I get that, but there are legal methods in place for that, use them. I need money too, maybe for the same reasons, to make a better life for myself and my family but I don't get to rob the bank !
 Exceptions, there are too many exceptions. That is the bottom line to me. You can not have discipline and order when granting exceptions. It is not a sometimes thing. We have laws and they should be equally enforced. There are no exceptions in the law. Yet we continue to grant them in a never ending stream because we are so afraid of being labeled as discriminatory. We follow the exception up by changing the law. If it isn't illegal, that makes it right. That is the mindset I am seeing. Well I am not one to buy that packet. There are things that are just plain wrong and no law can make it right. It is only the degree of punishment one receives that determines the severity of the law, isn't that what we think ? That is what is being taught anyway. If it is only a " little wrong " we can overlook it. Sewing the flag to the seat of your pants is only a little disrespectful. We allowed that and now what ? Do whatever you like, including burning that flag, it's alright, why it is a constitutional right of mine to do that ! Now you got the boys in the girls bathrooms and that is alright ! Oh but I'm homophobic or some other such term for saying that. Bull, it is the unvarnished truth regardless of what identity you choose. It is just plain wrong. And it has nothing at all to do with your " personal " life choices. If you want to wear a dress and play makeup fine, do it at home or in the boys bathroom. You know what, there are consequences for the choices we make, if you are not committed enough to accept the consequences of your actions, don't do those actions ! Simple isn't it. I chose to join the Navy. I had to live with those consequences, no exceptions. Yes, I earned some privileges by doing so. The key being, I earned them, they were not granted or given. Cause and effect. And the most distressing of all is when we decided one person has the right to decide if another person lives, before that person is even born. The unborn can now be legally punished with the death sentence ! Think about that for a minute. Yet these same folks will tell you capital punishment is wrong, and the criminals should be rehabilitated and reintroduced into society. The unborn get no introduction . It is more convenient that way. Hey, it is not illegal so it must be right.
 If we wish to have a nation we have to have unity. That was the idea behind the " United " states after all. One nation , under God. Now you aren't supposed to say that anymore. We can't mention God in a public forum, it may offend. Yes, and you know what it offends, sensibilities. Interjecting God who does administer the ultimate punishment, causes one to pause. I believe that to be true even to those that say otherwise. It is my feeling when they are alone, in the dead of night they consider that possibility. Far too many are distracted by the glitz and glamor of living these days. We need to return to understanding that the majority makes the rules, no exceptions. It is alright to be in the majority, in fact, it is a great thing. We must remember that like a parent raising a child we must make the best decision possible for every situation. Sometimes the child ain't gonna like it. If you start changing every decision to suit the child soon the child is in charge. Then what do you have ? Pretty much what you see happening in this country right now. Name calling, it's not fair and I want.
 Now I feel a little better. Thanks for reading.
     

Heritage soup

 I have noticed an increased interest in heritage. This is a prevalent theme today. I began to notice when folks started with all this Afro-American, Hispanic-American etc, etc. All claiming a pride in their heritage even though most have never been to their " homeland " or have any real knowledge of that homelands customs and practices. It strikes me as a bit curious. I come from German blood. Can't say I know much about the Germans. Yes, Hitler and that whole scenario comes to the forefront and that is unfortunate. The Nazi era spans twelve years of that country's history. I am also from Swedish blood. The swedes are known for what ? Meatballs and skiing ? Well they are from the Nordic folks and the Vikings were pretty bad dudes. I'm not related to any Vikings though, my great Uncle Albert wrote a paper about that. He says, no, we are not part of that. So there is the English side of the family as well. They were explorers and moved to the new world. I have English ancestors as far back as there was a new world ! Nobody famous though, just your everyday pioneers and such. Had a few whalers and men that worked the sea. I have done neither and so don't claim that as my heritage. The big question is, just what is your heritage ?
 From Wikipedia : Cultural heritage is the legacy of physical artifacts and intangible attributes of a group or society that are inherited from past generations, maintained in the present and bestowed for the benefit of future generations. Cultural heritage includes tangible culture (such as buildings, monuments, landscapes, books, works of art, and artifacts), intangible culture (such as folklore, traditions, language, and knowledge), and natural heritage (including culturally significant landscapes, and biodiversity).
 I'd say that describes it fairly well. It says these things are inherited. Can you inherit something you have only read about ? I suppose you can, but the question of how genuine that legacy would be comes into question. The way to avoid that is to embrace the intangible. I can relate tales, learn to speak a dialect and embrace certain traditions. All of that will fool those that are not a part of that heritage. I submit you may even fool yourself. I believe our heritage is just what we inherited from our parents and grandparents. What customs they taught us and the knowledge they passed on. That is heritage to me. I have several round the world whalers in my family tree, but I can't lay claim to being a whaler. I only know what I have read about that occupation. I did not inherit it. So why this fascination with heritage ? Why is that so important in society today ? My thinking is it is simply to gain an advantage, whether real or perceived. My grandparents were oppressed so that entitles me to certain benefits or compensations. That can be applied to a number of ethnic groups. The government acknowledges that " entitlement " with special programs. One need only prove heritage to qualify. An interesting notion don't you think ? If we go back in history far enough we can find instances of oppression for everyone !
 Now I believe in the American heritage. That is the cultural heritage I identify with. Another topic that requires clarification  is " identifying " yourself. That is getting to be a confusing thing. But I won't go into that at the moment. Cultural heritage is gained from past generations and maintained in the present. It is then passed to future generations. The American culture is relatively new in the world. You could offer arguments as to exactly when that culture was established. I will say it began with the forming of America beginning in Jamestown in 1607. about four hundred and nine years ago. Many have arrived on our shores since, some by choice, others not. Some adopted the American culture and others have not. I do believe a lot of that action depends upon the advantage or disadvantage of doing so. That is, after all, human nature. We are adaptable like that.
 I do not believe we get to choose our heritage. All this talk of " discovering " our heritage is just mirrors and smoke. Now I'm not saying one shouldn't take pride in their ancestors and where they may have originated, quite the contrary, but I am saying you can't claim that heritage as your own. Heritage must be inherited on a personal level is my belief. That does leave me in an uncomfortable place. What heritage do I claim ? I'm an American. I'm a Caucasian American. I'm a Caucasian, Protestant American. I'm a Caucasian, Protestant, Registered Republican American. I'm a Caucasian, Protestant, Registered Republican, lower middle class, Veteran American. But that isn't enough is it ? Except for my Veteran status which does entitle me to certain benefits, although I did earn those benefits, there is little there that works to my advantage. Of course the largest detriment is that I am a Caucasian. I'm not complaining, just pointing out a fact.
 Now that being said I will say this. I could buy a horse and saddle and that won't make me a cowboy. I can learn a language but that doesn't make me a native speaker. My great great great grandfather was one of those whalers, I can buy a harpoon but it won't make me a whaler ! I have no legitimate claim to that. And that is what I think we are experiencing here in America today. An identity crisis. We need to establish just what the American heritage is. The United States is the melting pot of the world. We have all heard that and was taught that as a truism. That is what America stood for. Now there are many that have decided they do not wish to " melt. " Well that just ain't gonna work. It is no different that making a soup, all the ingredients must blend together. If they do not, the soup is awful and gets discarded. Is that what we are witnessing ? I certainly hope that is not the case.  

finding out

 I'll begin with a follow-up of yesterdays blog. After spending a few hours searching I didn't turn up much about Marion. I found one article in the East Hampton Star dated Dec, 6, 1918 that mentions her. The article reads as follows; Jessie Bennett and Harriett Miller, both witnesses in a rape case against Mitchel Carpenter, were released and the charges dismissed. Marion Bennett admitted guilt  and was remanded to the care of the Children's society. A little investigation revealed the Children's' society was an institution across the street from the Alms house. I could find nothing further about Marion. Later on , talking to my Mother, she said her father had told her about Marion. As she remembers it, her father pointed her out to her one day. He said, that lady is Marion Bennett and was wild as a child. She was placed in the children's home. They made it so she could never have children. I looked that up and it was a practice back in that time period to perform sterilization on welfare folks, the mentally handicapped or those deemed unfit. So, I can't prove it but is possible. Hard to imagine that isn't it ? One article says young girls were often sterilized after giving birth, without their knowledge or consent. Perhaps that is what happened to Marion. I will probably discover some more given time. And so, for now anyway, I'm still going on gossip !
 I find I am intrigued by the things I don't know. I suppose that is a normal and natural thing, to be curious. Inquiring minds want to know and all that. The older I get however, the more I find myself amused by the things I do know. I think about things that have happened, their cause and effect  I often discover the reason for the action taken was not what I thought it was, at the time it was taken. It does take maturity to be honest, even with yourself. We have a tendency to find excuses or utilize somewhat fuzzy logic to justify ourselves. There is a fine line between gossip and the truth. Sometimes they are the same thing ! There is a old adage my mother uses a lot, if you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all. I agree that is sound advice, but a little boring. A lot of information is lost that way. The question is, does all information have value ? Well, only to those that seek it, is my answer. Yes, it should be shared as well. Like most everything else though, it has its' time and place. Yesterday may have been the time for me to find out about Marion. Is there a reason I need to know that ? I can't say with certainty either way.
 When should knowledge be released ? In a timely fashion is the correct response. To whom should this information be given ? To those that require it. Is it as simple as that ? It would certainly be a calmer world if that were true. We call that, minding our own business don't we ? That is something most folks find difficult to do. We are moved to action by our emotions. There are times when we feel an absolute compulsion to speak out, or take some form of action regardless of our good judgement telling us otherwise. We sometimes label that concern, or even love. It is really an act of empathy ? Empathy involves emotion and understanding. Does empathy require an action ? No, it does not. The compulsion to act is triggered by self doubt. It is often a means to make ourselves feel better, or superior to the one injured. Strangely we often use the tact of, it has happened to me as the basis for our advice. That may be useful in telling another how to avoid the injury, but does nothing for healing.
 I have wandered off on a tangent and hope I didn't lose you. I was talking about finding the truth of things. The most interesting of all is finding the truth about yourself. I wonder if that is even possible, there is an inherent bias. I don't believe anyone can deny that. I know why I did what I did. What I don't know is your motivations. Isn't that what causes most of the problems we encounter in our lives ? It is a lack of knowledge. Interestingly, as I age I find I don't always know why I did what I did when I did it ! The reasons are excuses. Excuses are not answers. I'm beginning to think that aging requires accepting the answers ! What I mean by that is, those " excuses " are the answers. That's honesty. Yes, I really did do whatever because ? No more excuses. A thought that is easy to understand but difficult to execute. Keeping our motivation pure is the struggle. That is the basis for peace in our lives. Examine your motivation before acting is my advice. Listen carefully to the reason. Is it an excuse or an answer ?   
   

History or gossip ?

 I was going through the family tree and stumbled upon an interesting little article of news. It seems a Miss Marion Bennett, daughter of Selden Bennett and Melissa Hulse was sentenced to the Alms house. Naturally I was interested to find out more. Then I found the record of her admission. It seems she was thirteen years old at the time and had bad habits ! That's right, that is what the record says. She was sentenced by the Justice of the Peace to four months. No explanation of what those habits may have been but they were obviously seriously bad. She was admitted to this institution on August the 20th, 1918. On August 22, 1918 the record shows she absconded. Yup, absconded.
 Selden Bennett, the father of this child, is the father in law of my 1st cousin , 1 one time removed. He had many children but I can find little more about Marion. I have found her on a census from 1940 and it says she is single. I have other sources saying she may have married a Dellapolo. That name is familiar to the local folks were I grew up. I can't verify that information just yet. She may have had a son named Virgil Quentin. I have only done a cursory search of records. It is something I will look into further.
 What struck me most about this was learning that you could be sentenced to the Alms house, also known as the poor house. I had always thought they were only for the ill or homeless folks. My own great grandfather, Christian Reichart, spent his last few years in the same alms house as Marion ! He was suffering from stomach cancer. He passed away in that place. This poorhouse would have been located in Yapank, on Long Island. I have read several articles about these poorhouses and none mentioned them being used for disciplinary purposes. Remember that this girl is only thirteen years old. I wonder what her parents thought of all this. Did they support this decision, by a Justice of the Peace ?  I wonder if they had any other choice ? I suspect sensibilities were quite a bit different back in those days. I wonder what she did after absconding ? It is a good fifty miles from Yapank to East Hampton where her home was. I wouldn't think she would go back there because she was sentenced to four months. There is no hiding out in East Hampton, everyone knows everyone else. All interesting questions I hope to find an answer for at some point.
 Sometimes doing the family tree is like gossiping. I get that impression at times anyway. I want to know more about this girl with " bad habits. " What could that mean ? Was she a petty thief or a cheat of some kind ? Perhaps it was her morality that being called into question. Sure this is all history now, water under the bridge you might say. The records I have uncovered so far have her still single in 1940. There is unsupported documentation that she had at least one child. Also unsupported is the notion that she married a man with the last name of Delapolo. Yes, I want to know the " skinny. " That is the expression used in the Navy when wanting to have the inside scoop. So, I will embark on a digital search of discovery. What records can I uncover ? I'll have to start by checking the newspapers, surely this was news. I guess it wasn't acceptable to have " bad habits " in 1918. That would get you sentenced back then. To the poorhouse with you ! I do know that everyone at the poorhouse was required to work if they were able. My great grandfather had to as long as he could stand up ! He also left once but returned shortly thereafter. All accounts say it wasn't a very nice place to be. Marion was there two days that I know about so far. Did she ever have to finish that sentence ? A mystery to be solved.       

Observation

 You could say I have always been somewhat of an observer in life. I always seem to be a little on the fringe. It is not a conscious choice on my part, but the role I was assigned. In recent years I have begun to record those observations in the form of these blog postings. Perhaps the internet and this whole cyber space thing was created to satisfy that. I was born at the appropriate time and in the appropriate place. Serendipity ? Perhaps , perhaps not, it is not important. Everything said or done is not of importance. Their are amusements and anecdotes in life. Some would say I have concerned myself more with them than being a productive member of society. I say, at least I'm not a drain on society. It is all in the way you choose to view it.
 Is the goal in life the acquisition of property ? Most will tell you it is not, while they fervently pursue just that. That is because when you have achieved that financial independence you can just do whatever you like. That is the perception anyway but the reality is quite a bit different. I have known a few that had financial independence and they still wanted more. Enough is never enough. I'm not saying they were all fanatical about it, but the the desire to increase their possessions remained strong. None I knew seemed satisfied. I would expect it is simply because it is their nature to be a doer, not an observer. The world needs both.
 I find myself frequently pondering this situation we call life. What is the purpose of life and why am I here ? Does there even need to be a reason ? I guess that is why I observe so much, I'm trying to learn. I have always found it easier to learn by watching someone else do the task first. I have often jokingly said, I could watch a master work for hours. It is not because I'm lazy, that is the joke, but I really do admire a fine workman. I find a satisfaction in watching a skilled craftsman do his or her task. It is like observing art. Something to appreciate. The problem I face is watching life. By the time I am finished watching, it will be over ! I may have learned how to do it by then, but by then it will be too late, or will it ? That leaves me with one question. Is this all there is ? The answer would appear to be , yes. This is it, for this world. I don't believe anyone has ever come back from wherever to tell us otherwise. Well, except for one and he was God. We are not Gods. And he only came back to prove a point. He had already told us about the reward of heaven and came back to show us he was telling the truth. I'm convinced.
 All of that does nothing to explain why we are here in the first place. Perhaps we are an amusement or an anecdote. If that is the case, I'm on the right track. I can't envision a creator that would place us here to create things ? Why would he want us to do that ? He created the heaven and the earth he could certainly make anything he likes. So I'm thinking that maybe I shouldn't be worried about why I'm here at all. It is just a fact that I am. What is important is what I do while I am here. I do think we all have a purpose. Will I ever know that purpose ? Better still, do I need to know that purpose in order to fulfill it ? I've known some folks that claim to know their life's mission and are in pursuit of that. Most I know don't even think about it. They are the ones concerned with property and such. Then there is me, on the fringe. Wondering about one and participating in the other. I'm doing neither one with what I would call passion.
 I wonder if passion is fueled by desire to be in the light. That is to say, be noticed. Oh, we all want that to a certain degree there is no denying that. We all want to be recognized for our contributions. Is the urgency of that need to be recognized the driving force behind these folks ? Is that why they are the go-getters ? I'm not talking about those that are seeking financial gain or the acquisition of property solely, but those that are passionate in their interests. Musicians, artists, writers , poets  and missionaries. All those types of people. Businessmen are included in that grouping as well. Is it that which drives me to write these blogs ? Could be, I can't rule that possibility out. Is that wrong ? Only when those pursuits causes harm to others or to yourself. All things in moderation.
 Well it is time to check my lottery tickets to see if I am a millionaire. You can win financial independence. I, along with millions of others dream of what I would do. I would start by buying stuff. Funny how that works isn't it ? Can you buy piece of mind ? I don't know but I would like to try. I wonder if I do win will I remain as concerned with these esoteric pursuits as I currently am. I may become distracted. Of course, I may already be distracted and being a millionaire would force me to focus ! Life is fifty/fifty. That is the way I see it anyway.          

Old men and young memories

 So I went to the reunion yesterday and it was great. I met some wonderful, like minded people. The greatest thrill to me was shaking the hands of those veterans that had been in the war with my dad. There were four of them in attendance. A Mr. Jim Eide was sitting at the same table as I. That man was a nose gunner and flew in the same squadron as my father, the 65th, which he assured me was the best one ! The other vets were in the same Bombardment group, the 43rd. All were in the fifth Army. In case you don't know the air force was still a part of the army back then. The Army Air Corp as it was called. The rest of us were children and grandchildren.
 I did get a chance to speak with the other veterans . We must remember these men are all in their nineties now. The looked at my pictures with much interest. I did notice how they too stared at those images, those unnamed faces I had hoped to identify. Sadly, they recalled none of them. I could see in their eyes that spark of memory that never dies, the memory of a bond. Strangely when I got home I looked at an old group photograph of my graduating class from Machinists Mate " A " school. Taken at Great Lakes Ill in February of 1972 I could not put a name to a single face, except my own. I looked at it closely, I did remember some of the faces but no names. For some I got a sense of the person, whether I liked or disliked that person. It is a strange feeling. Of course, we were just going to school , not engaged in war.
 I was asked to send my pictures and other memorabilia to George Mason University for scanning. This university has an extremely high resolution scanner and is documenting everything associated with the war in the Pacific. It is a mission. When we think of world war two we just naturally associate it with the European campaigns. Nazi Germany and all that. The documentation of the Pacific campaigns are much fewer and contain much less information. Also in 1947 there was a fire that destroyed the service records of many of these veterans. George Mason is also collecting any information in that regard. I had scanned my pictures and some artifacts and gave them to the president of the reunion committee. The resolution is not good enough for inclusion. I would like to share everything but hesitate to mail these items off. Should they get lost in the mail or they are not returned, well, you know what I mean. So that is something I will have to give thought too. To my surprise some of my photographs have monetary value to collectors. I am not interested in selling anything but when something has monetary value the likelihood of a disappearance is greater. Not saying anyone would cheat me, just saying.
 All in all I had a pleasant few hours with this group. Most are far more involved than I have any interest to be. I admire their tenacity in locating and preserving everything and anything they can. I was informed that they even have their own website dedicated to the 65th squadron. This squadron had four groups. My interest lies with what my dad did  and the missions he flew. Mr Eide told me he flew 53 missions. Another gentleman had flown 56. They all recognized some of the B-24 bombers that I had pictures of, and had flown in some them. I will stay in touch with these folks as long as my interest holds. At the end of the meeting each Veteran read the names of those that had passed since last years' meeting. It was a solemn recognition. A prayer was offered. Following that a lady began to sing. She sang God Bless America in the wavering voice of the elderly. It was beautifully done and she invited everyone to join in. As I joined in I couldn't help but think, how many young people today would even know the words.
 I left satisfied. That is all I can say about the experience. It was a rather bittersweet thing. I could see the sadness in those Vets eyes when speaking of those that are gone. I could see the pride in their eyes as well. Old men with young memories. I'm not that old just yet, but believe I can understand just a bit. They were all young men back then. The war ended seventy one years ago ! In their minds it isn't that long ago. They still fly through that hostile air in memory. I know my own Dad did  and seldom spoke of it. For these men enough time has passed and they are willing to talk. I saw some of the swagger they surely carried in their youth, these pilots, bombardiers and a nose gunner. The old bravado on display one more time. I salute these men, their brethren and all who served. God Bless them all.

Mr Jim Eide

A pilot

The gentleman to the left was also a pilot. The man to the far right is the son of the pilot in the center.

One more time

Today I am going to a reunion. I am going in place of my father who passed away 26 years ago. The squadron and group that he flew with in WW2 are gathering in Baltimore, Maryland. I have been in contact with these folks and today is the day. This group of folks, sons, daughters and grandchildren of those brave men are gathering to remember and honor them. It brings me a measure of pride to be included. Our WW2 veterans are growing few and soon will all be just memories. This group seeks to preserve those memories and share them with the world. It is a noble cause and a worthy one. I have gathered the old photos and mementos my Dad left behind and will take them with me. It isn't much to show, nothing fantastic, but objects full of meaning to me. All the photos I have scanned and placed on a card. I will give those pictures to the curator of a museum for inclusion in their collection. That in itself will bring me some satisfaction knowing Dads photos will not be lost to time. I often think about that, old photos and the memories they hold. They all deserve a home. I have no children or grandchildren that actually knew my Dad. Those pictures hold little value to them, other than they know I value them. But, I worry. Where will they go after I am gone ? Will anyone tell their story or indeed, even remember them ?
 That is what started this little quest in the first place. I had those pictures, so many with nameless faces, and felt a sadness for that. I began to assemble them into a small album. I had intended to call that album, The Ghosts of War, as I felt I would never be able to identify those men. Then , in only what can be called a serendipitous moment, I found on the web this reunion. I wasn't searching for it, it just appeared as I was doing a completely unrelated search. Fate intervened and I may be able to identify some of those folks after all. In fact, a few have been confirmed already ! From a few notes on the back of those pictures several men are named. I have exchanged e-mail with a member of the group. I am hopeful that the rest will be identified. I'll have to think of a new name for that album, perhaps, " my fathers' memories " would be more appropriate. Or memories reborn. I'll just have to wait and see how it all goes.
 Included in those pictures are many of " nose art " on B-24 aircraft. I can only assume that those planes were all part of the squadron. There is much to be learned about this and I am anxious to learn. I know little of how the organization of units in the Army Air Force, as it was called back then were defined. I know that dad was in the Fifth Air Force, 43rd Bomb group, 65 squadron. I have that in a picture. I'm certain all those pictures of those planes exist in lots of other places. They look like they were mass produced in some fashion, probably sold in the BX or whatever they called it. I have one that is a Christmas Card ! That one is pretty neat. As far as I know none of those planes have survived to this day. I believe there is at least one B-24 preserved and flying today. At least there was a few years back, as I did visit it when it landed in Easton, Maryland.
 And so today I will go to meet these folks and share a common bond with them. They are all strangers to me and I to them. We do share that connection however. A common interest. I am not as involved as these folks obviously are. This is just a passing fancy with me. It is something I need to lay to rest. These memories of my father should be saved and shared. Once I have done that to my satisfaction I will move on. It will be enough. Dad flew his last combat mission on Aug 12, 1945, 71 years ago. I will go, in his stead, to this gathering. I hear tell one gentleman will be there  that walked the runway with my Dad. Whether he remembers my Dad or not is not important to me, but to shake his hand would be amazing. In a way, it would be almost like touching my fathers hand one more time. The circle completed.

Remaining wary

 I was scrolling down my Facebook page when I saw this posting. It was one of those memes stating that this year, for the first time, Freshmen in high school will be taught about 9/11 as a historical event that happened before they were born ! My immediate reaction was, oh man, now I do feel old. It is hard to think that happened fifteen years ago when it remains so fresh in my mind. I'm certain it is that way for most of us " seniors " today. The younger folks may not remember as vividly or have been impacted as greatly. I remember exactly where I was and what I was doing the moment I heard that awful news. My feelings are as strong today as they were then. My fathers generation held those feelings about the Japanese or Germans. I knew a few men that held those feelings about the Koreans. The only difference here is I have no one nation to blame, just a religion. The action was taken in the name of Islam and their extreme views. The thing is, that makes no more sense than previous generations blaming all Japanese, Germans or Koreans for the actions of their ancestors. I do understand it though, I really do understand and it was a hard learned lesson. Forgiveness is a long time coming. Well, to be completely honest about it, I haven't found that forgiveness. I am past the anger stage where I seek retribution, but remain wary. I can not help but view those professing allegiance to the religion of Mohamed with a bit of skepticism. They are to be watched, closely. I have read their " book " and the instructions seem clear enough to me. I won't go into that discussion here, I have written plenty about it in the past.
 The year I was born Julius and Ethel Rosenberg were executed for spying. They were tried and found guilty of passing secrets to the Soviets. I heard about that growing up but in asking I found few people remember that ever happened. I remember the Bay of Pigs incident, although I was still in grade school. (1961) Probably not accurate but it seems to me we began hiding under our desks at school following that. The Soviets might drop a bomb on us at any time. I mean, we executed their spies and then tried to invade Cuba so they weren't too happy about that. Then the Vietnam war came along. Not a war at first, but a police action much like Korea. I remember it all well. I was stationed aboard the USS Puget Sound in 1973 when the news came through. The United States involvement in the war was over. That was followed by several minor incidents and military actions. I was there for Desert Shield / Desert Storm. I sailed into the conflict aboard the USS Nitro AE-23 delivering fuel and ammo. (1990) I retired to Maryland and watched as we returned to the area. I saw the news and shook my head. Then in 2001 that big event took place. I am still reeling from that blow. That is why I say, I understand.
 I also understand the importance of teaching our children about that event. The importance lies not in seeking retribution , but in teaching them how to view it in the correct historical perspective. We were attacked by a group of people that hate America and what we stand for. Those folks claim to be Muslims. What they hoped to gain by those actions I can not fathom. It was an attack just for the sake of hatred and spite. For those of us that knew little to nothing about Muslims or the religion of Islam that is where the blame gets placed. Is it fair ? No, I would say it is not, but it is a reality. That was the only identifier provided. So, like the Japanese, Germans and to a degree the Soviets that is who is responsible ! I still struggle with that and most likely always will. It doesn't help when we hear about The Nation of Islam. The Nation of Islam was founded by African-Americans and is not looked upon favorably by other ethnic groups in America. Some even classify it as a " hate group. " By identifying themselves as a " Nation " they lend credence to the thought of labeling all Muslims as a nation. Thus all Muslims are responsible.
 Well I have rambled on a bit about all of this and that is alright. It is just that seeing that fact set my mind to thinking. I like history and the knowing of what came before. I do like the " inside " story more than the version washed for general consumption. Only those that lived through the event can accurately describe it. When others tell it, it is just a story. 9/11 is a story that needs to be told but we must be careful in the telling. It was an act of terror perpetrated by those filled with hate. Their stated reason was it was an act of war dictated by their God. Well, their God told their prophet, who told them to do it. It is all very complicated really, this religion of Islam. I won't try to explain it as I am certainly no expert in that regard. I will say this much, I'll be keeping an eye on them, whenever and wherever I see them. We can all get along with each other but some warrant watching, same as everyone else. Biased ? Yes, I'll admit to that, I am. I remember it well and remain wary.

routine

 I almost always write these blogs first thing in the morning. It has become somewhat of a habit. A routine if you will. Oh there are times when inspiration strikes and I write in the afternoon or evening but that is a rare occurrence. I have been thinking about writing in the afternoon as a sort of experiment. There is no doubt that our mood changes throughout the day. I'm thinking that would certainly influence my thoughts. I'm curious as to what my blog may reflect if I did that. Would the overall tone of them change ? Could I even do that knowing it is an experiment without that knowledge tainting the result ?
 I do not write about anything in particular or with any agenda in mind. I just write about what comes to mind. Sometimes nothing comes to mind and I'll write those no-brainer ones. Of course some may say all my blogs are no-brainers ! That's all right though I don't mind. My musings, as I like to call them, help clear my mind. I do attempt to explain the reason I think or believe what I do. It is not necessary that others understand it as long as they enjoy reading it. I've read a lot of books I didn't really understand but they were all valuable. There are some things I will never understand, like abstract art. Just looks like a mess to me. To each their own though, if you see it as something else that's fine. Secretly I'll laugh at you. I will not pretend to like it or understand it, but be polite. That is what I was taught. If it doesn't do any harm, leave it alone. The same goes for bugs and animals. If they ain't hurting you, leave them alone.
 There are times when a single thought comes to mind and I don't understand what it is trying to tell me. This morning it occurred to me that our lives are in a funnel. We are being directed to a certain area. When we are born the funnel is wide, full of possibilities. As the years pass it becomes more and more restricted, Time speeds up. The years go by faster and faster. We are rushing to a conclusion. When we pass through the throat of that funnel where will we be ? I believe we will enter paradise. A wide open space were we are unfettered by sickness, sorrow, or any of the other maladies of mankind. Free at last. A funnels purpose is to guide us through a narrow passage. The gate to heaven is a narrow one. The issue is, if we are all in the funnel together wouldn't we all wind up in the same place ? I also believe that not everyone will make that journey so how do they escape the funnel ? I don't yet have a theory for that.
 Well I wandered around here this morning. That is how my thoughts are going so far. The sun is up and the day looks bright. The kids start school this morning and the seasons move forward. I saw the " fall " grass popping up in the lawn yesterday. Won't be long now. A new routine will establish itself.    

talking to myself

 I'm getting out of rhythm. I don't know what it is exactly, but I can feel it. A change is coming on. Maybe I'm getting ready for a change in the seasons, or maybe it is something more. I'm just feeling a bit sporadic is all. Funny how I will complain about being in a rut but find it unsettling when I am not. I don't think it is going to be anything major, some minor adjustment in the internal time clock. I'm a big believer in paying attention to that internal mechanism. Your body will tell you what to do, if you listen. There is a corner of your brain that regulates that. Problems usually arise when we fail to listen. Sometimes we listen to the other part of our brains, the portion that controls vanity. That is when we may make those decisions that are just plain unwise. You also have to be careful when listening to others, they don't have access to that information. Their concern or encouragement may be well intended but contrary to what your body is telling you.
 Another factor in making changes, even small ones, is finding support. Of course some folks require more support than others. Personally I would just as soon people didn't notice. I'm not one much for having cheerleaders. I prefer to save the celebration until after the game is won. When I decided it was time to quit smoking, I just quit. I didn't wear any patches or seek support groups and such. I didn't want anyone to even speak of it. I chose to dismiss that habit from my life. I hear the commercials on television where folks are saying it took them three months to quit. That isn't true at all. It took one moment, one final decision to not smoke the next minute, hour or day. May have taken them three months to make the decision though, took me almost forty years. For me, any mention of it, any cheerleading is just a distraction. It is counter productive to me. The will to make change has to come from within yourself to be effective. At least that is my opinion.
 I can feel a change coming on. My guess it is related to being recently retired. I no longer have that routine in my life. I don't miss that and that is the truth. I do miss the personal interaction that came with working in retail. I do enjoy talking to folks, well some folks anyway, there are those I can do without ! I don't think this change has anything to do with that particular aspect though. I am enjoying that freedom that comes with not having to be anywhere I don't want to. I make my own schedule now and can change it on a whim. I like that. There is a part of me that does require some structure. I'm thinking maybe that is the change I am experiencing. Perhaps I need a self imposed structure, an activity. Not a hobby, that is a different action altogether, a hobby is done for the fun of it. I'm thinking more of a " forced " activity. The change would be, forcing myself to comply. Hmm. I wonder if I am adult enough for that. I did accomplish that at least once, when I quit smoking. I did force that action upon myself, a self imposed action. It is true that I wanted to do it. This is a little different from that. I don't know what it is I want or need. Guess the first thing to decide is whether it is a want or a need.
 In reading back over my thoughts I have concluded it is a need. That explains why I feel compelled to act. Now all I need do is decide upon that action. I'll have to listen a bit more closely to hear the answer. It is there. I just don't like being told what to do, even by myself ! Growing up is hard to do. I'll keep trying.      

a benevolent government ?

 Should government be a benevolent institution or is it strictly business ? Most will say it should be both. The problem lies in the fact that it cannot. It must be one or the other to serve the entire population. Giving to one group and excluding another has obvious flaws. It is only through the equal application of the law that true justice can be achieved. No exceptions or exemptions. Any such will be viewed as a corruption of that government by those that do not benefit. Isn't that the situation we find ourselves in ? I can see it no other way. It is a struggle between those that have and those that have not. The government has intervened in an attempt to equalize the financial situation and done nothing but made it worse. Patches and short term gains do nothing to solve the real issue. Regulation upon regulation does nothing but create more regulation in an unending cycle. That is the result of benevolence. It is the old , give them an inch, they will take a mile situation.
 The opposite situation is where the government is rigid and fixed. There is no flexibility in the application of law or justice. Ruling with a iron fist ! That is the perception and the reality of that system. It suffers from the same fault as the benevolent government, interpretation of the law. Where is the middle ground ? More importantly, is their a middle ground ? I argue that there is not. Either you have a fixed set of laws that apply equally to every citizen or you don't. The government does not get to exclude itself from that. But you say, who is the government. We are taught that we the people are the government. We are the government through our elected representatives. They are supposed to govern according to the will of the people. Is government doing that ? Depends upon who you ask doesn't it ? Do you advocate for a government of benevolence or strict adherence to current law. I, not surprisingly, advocate for adherence to the law. No exceptions and no exemptions.
 Wouldn't it be wonderful if we could have it both ways ? I don't believe you can. Limited government ? It sounds good on the surface of things, that concept of limited government, but how to decide the limitations is the real problem with that. Big government can be more benevolent can't it ? If the government controls everything it can then control the population as well. Government gets to decide what is best. That is the result of relinquishing your power to a representative. So what do we do ? The short answer is vote. We vote for our representative based on his promises and/or qualifications. Are they saying what we want to hear ? Is it what they truly believe in their hearts ? How can we know ? We can not know that with a certainty. When it runs contrary to what we want we say the government is corrupt and become angered. When government benefits us personally, we say it is a wonderful thing. That is just human nature. So the actions we take lies in which group is currently angry. Do we satisfy that anger by increased benevolence or a stricter adherence to law ? It is like raising a child isn't it ? Which would you choose ? Reward or punishment ? Ideally government is a reflection of ourselves. That is the concept with a republic, a government of the people. Do you like the reflection you are seeing ? If you do not you may ask yourself, what contribution have I made ? To which side am I partial. Benevolence or business, which is it ? Can you be in the business of benevolence ? The big problem there is you will run out of other peoples money to give away. In business I may not profit however. So in choosing government it really is a personal choice isn't it ? Will you give other peoples money away until there is no more ? Or will you be frugal with their money in the hope that all will profit ? That is the real decision of government. Everything else depends upon that.

Victim or survivor

  Are we all victims and survivors ? At least that is the narrative I hear every day on the news, I hear it everywhere I go. We are one or the other. How did we reach this point ? That is what I want to know. I'm beginning to see a nation wallowing in self pity. If we are not feeling sorry for themselves, we are feeling sorry for everyone else. If you enjoy a little success that makes you a survivor. That is what I keep hearing. Even the president said, if you have a business you didn't do that yourself ! That is the attitude I'm talking about. Any success you achieve is not the result of your own actions, you are indebted to someone or something. If you meet with failure it is because you are a victim ! It is either the rich folks,  your race, or your ethnicity that caused that failure. You were victimized !
 The main thing being victimized today is the truth ! We are not to tell the plain unvarnished truth about anything. No , you can only say what does not offend. If that truth is inconvenient or perhaps " hurtful " in some way it is best not to mention that. It is also acceptable to just fabricate " facts " to fit whatever narrative you wish to present. Choosing the lesser of two evils is acceptable, indeed that concept is being supported. What most seem to forget is that choosing the lesser of two evils is still choosing evil ! So they wind up justifying that. But you can not tell that truth either without being met with scorn or sarcasm. It is similar to being only, a little pregnant.
 Now I'm not saying the truth can't be told. It is, but is often so glossed over ( varnished ) as to be blinding to the average listener. That is the magic of a politician. They have that gift, if you want to call it that, of saying their truths and making it sound right. The easiest method of accomplishing that is to make you a victim and then offer a remedy. Are you less than wealthy ? No problem, redistribute the wealth. Barring that, we can raise the wage. That is what one side is spewing forth, The other is going to create jobs. You can earn your wealth. You have been victimized by the immigrants flooding the country, taking all the jobs and getting all the free stuff. Well sir, we will build a wall and deport them folks ! That will level the playing field. If you are not currently on welfare or collecting other government " benefits " you are a survivor. You should be rewarded with the return of your country. That is the big promise there. Things will be like the past, you know when everyone in America was proud and patriotic. Before we were victims and survivors. Back when we were Pioneers, leading the world.
 If I wanted to divide a group of people the easiest way to do it is create winners and losers. The losers are the victims and the winners are the survivors. Isn't that the way it works ? We even have television shows exposing that philosophy. People eat that stuff up don't they ? The survivors are rewarded. The victims are sometimes offered a second chance. Who is the real winner in all that ? The shows producers are, they are making money. They can afford to throw a few bucks at the survivors, no big deal. Government works in a similar fashion. The only difference between the two party offerings is the manner of distribution of that reward. One promises that you will be given that reward and the other promises you can earn it. The truth is both ways leave you dependent upon the government. Both are evils in their own right. The evil is that you are not given the choice of right, but the choice of which is less wrong. Which will you choose ? Victim or survivor ?
 The quick answer will always be survivor. The person that has suffered through injustice and adversity. Isn't that want we all believe ? You have to be a victim first don't you ? Then you can be a survivor, the ultimate achievement. The hero in the story becomes you ! Is that why I hear this so much today ? What about just calling it life. Is being alive being victimized and the goal to become a survivor ? Well I don't see it that way. Having life presents opportunity. That what it is, a chance. To adopt the attitude of I'm a victim is to admit defeat. I haven't been beaten yet ! I'm still here. In case you have forgotten one little thing about life let me be the one to remind you. You won't survive it ! You will die one day. I refuse to live as a victim. I'm not a survivor either. I am just a person doing the best I can. If my fellow man chooses to help I'm, grateful. If you have more than I, good for you. If you have less, I'll try to help. I feel no guilt for your circumstance and no guilt for mine. It is just life, get on with it.

Uncle Oliver continued

 After posting yesterday I did a little more searching for my 4th great uncle Oliver. I had limited success but did discover a few more details. The ship he was on was the USS North Carolina. A 74 gun ship of the line ! A three masted frigate moored in New York.
Of the American ships-of-the-line, the Columbus,, North Carolina, and Delaware saw substantial service before the Civil War. The Columbus and Ohio were active during the Mexican War. Like the American frigates, the American 74s often carried guns in excess of their rate. The North Carolina reportedly carried over 100 guns during some Mediterranean cruises. During the civil war she sat moored in New York harbor serving as a " receiving " ship. These ships, usually the old frigates, served as floating dormitories. As required these new recruits would be sent to their final duty station. Oliver however got sent to the hospital ! He had a hernia. I found the record of his admission and release from the hospital. I even found a document showing his personal belongings. Interesting to me was it listed his hammock, along with his clothing. What happened after that I have yet to discover. I don't know if he was discharged from the service or not. Given that he was 38 years old and drafted I tend to believe he was discharged. His widow applied for a pension, after his death. Oliver was born in 1824 and died in 1891. He may have been in Manhattan at the time of his passing, although I can't prove that conclusively. I would have to mail off for the death certificate. I am a bit of a stickler when doing my ancestry stuff. I try not to jump to conclusions about records. Now, I have found a record that says Oliver G King passed away Feb. 1891 in Manhattan. The record says he was born in 1824. The record doesn't say his middle name was Gibson or that he was from East Hampton. It is possible that it was not my Oliver Gibson King. My Oliver is buried in Cedar Lawn at East Hampton.
 I really enjoy these little forays into the past. It is always surprising the things you may discover. Now I know that Uncle Oliver had a hernia. I do not know how that would have been treated in 1862 but I'm guessing it wasn't good ! He survived to tell the tale though. I also found his date of death. The website Find-A-Grave had him listed there. It is what I would have expected. Finding a listing of his clothing was interesting. I can tell you he didn't have much but it was typical of the times I suppose. I even went and found a picture of that ship. The USS North Carolina was one of the last Ships of the Line that the Navy kept in commission. Four ships in Naval service have been named such. One ship of the line, two battleships and one submarine. Much remains to be learned. I will continue again another day but am content for now.

and there she is ! The USS North Carolina

    

In the Navy

 I was working on the family tree the other day and stumbled upon something I found interesting. Oliver Gibson King, my 4th great uncle, served in the Navy during the civil war. He was 38 years old in 1862. It was a natural choice because he was a whaler. I have that tintype photo of him and his brother Abraham. I haven't found Abraham in the records as having served. I did find where Oliver was in the hospital suffering from a hernia. He survived all of that and went on to father thirteen children over a twenty three year period. Many of his descendants are around today I'm certain of that.
 It is interesting because when we think of the civil war we think soldiers. The Navy is almost forgotten in the war except for a few things like the iron clads famous battle. Oh, and the first use of a submarine, although that turned out to be more of a suicide mission. It was the Navy that was primarily responsible for the capture of New Orleans. It was also the Navy that controlled most of the rivers and made it very difficult for the south to get supplies. The big strategy for the north was the " Anaconda " plan. That plan was to block all southern ships from trading with Great Britain for arms and supplies. Just what or where Oliver was I do not yet know but will continue to look for records. Being a retired Navy man myself I take some pride in that. I have known several of my Uncles served in the Navy during World War 2. Have a picture of at least one them in uniform.
 It shouldn't come as a surprise that my ancestors served in the Navy. They were after all, mostly from Long Island or Massachusetts and seafaring peoples. My 4th great grandfather served in the army during the civil war. Ironically the nickname for his company was the " clam diggers. " Some from his company utilized some small boats to harass the enemy in the Carolinas, assigned to that mission due to their background on the water. It is surprising however when I find these little things in the pages of history. Then I begin to think about all those folks that made it back home and continued their lives. East Hampton, indeed Long Island itself, was a tight knit group of people. They all knew each other and shared a common experience. Walking through the cemeteries I would often see the 127th NY Volunteers written on the headstones. I learned that meant they had served in the civil war. The 127th known officially as " The Monitors " were at Fort Sumter when the south surrendered. I don't recall seeing any mention of a navy man. I wonder if any such exists ? Surely they must. I'll continue my search for Uncle Oliver. I don't have a date for his death but am certain he is buried in Cedar Lawn cemetery.

Abraham and Oliver. Oliver on the right.

Time marches on

 Next week the kids go back to school here in Greensboro. The summer is over, done, toast. Bring on the fall. It was a quick one. The kids grew up this summer. There is no excitement for new back packs, outlawed at school for safety concerns. No, they are not concerned for the children's backs, they are concerned about bombs and such being brought to school. Notwithstanding that, the kids are too " old " for that. For Mark, the sophomore, it is a back to work attitude. Gotta do it, but not happy about it. Morgan in her final year of middle school is more concerned with what fashion to wear. The whole thing is no big deal to either of them. Time marches on , as the saying goes, and so too the seasons. Seasons in life as well. You could say spring is over for the kids ( my grandchildren ) and they are beginning summer. Spring is the beginning, new birth, new life. Now summer follows where everything grows, then blooms. Metaphorically, they have entered the summer of their lives. The seeds have been planted. Now it is the time to grow and become whatever they are destined to be.
 It is only when you get a few years behind you that you begin to see these patterns. Everything really does go in a big circle. The old gospel song, Will the circle be unbroken, comes to mind. I can look back and remember my school days. Sure things were a little different back then but the action was the same. We had different concerns, different attitudes. Still it was basically the same thing. The seeds were planted in elementary school, fertilized in middle and high school. Some went on to college, for an extended growing season while others went to work. Our summers were all long. Now I have made it to the fall. I am harvesting the fruits of my labor. That's what grandchildren are. I got to see my own children grow to full maturity ( sometimes that is debatable ) and begin a new cycle of growth. The grandchildren give us further hope for the future. They are a reassurance that we did do right. It is inevitable that one day I will enter the winter of life. It's cold there, and that is why old people wear sweaters ! I'm not there yet, but it will arrive and somehow even that is a comfort. It is just a part of the circle.
 When I was a kid Mom would have done the shopping for school clothes. That was usually done with the Sears catalogue. The only thing we bought locally was shoes, to make sure of the fit. They had to last a good while back then. We didn't have back packs. We had those elastic straps we fastened around our books. They are outlawed as being too dangerous. " Book straps Blind " was the cry and they were banned. I'm not sure wish amendment covered that but I'm pretty sure our rights were violated. Three ring binders  were the order of the day or those composition notebooks. No calculators, small pocket sized ones hadn't been invented yet ! Yeah, I'm that old. I do remember what a slide rule is and how to do basic functions with it. School days fondly recalled because we all wish a return to spring. Well we do have Christmas to look forward too. The biggest and best celebration of all. It is no coincidence that it takes place in winter. At least that is what I like to think. In years past I would be marking up the Sears Christmas Wish book long about October or so. I see where they have one online nowadays. I haven't gone to check it out yet but read it plays Christmas music while you browse it, page by page. Sounds like fun for a child, I just had to hum,  but the times are changing. So, next week, back to school. More of a big deal to these grandparents than to the kids. And time marches on.

 

Boob tube ?

 What do the kids watch on television these days ? What does anyone watch on television these days ? I would have to say I'm pretty ignorant when it comes to that. I just don't know anymore. I have a few favorites that I watch over and over. Very few new shows appeal to me. I'm not sure why that is.  Guess I'm just an old fuddy duddy ! I started losing interest about the time of Survivor and that genre of show came along. Big brother ? And an seemingly endless string of CSI shows. To be frank about it, I don't care who did what or how they did it. But I do wonder what the kids watch. The ones say twelve to sixteen or so. What is there that is appropriate for them ? Well, the fact is even that has changed dramatically since I was that age. It is pretty much anything goes these days. So maybe I am better off not knowing what the kids are watching. I stick to watching the evening news, the big bang theory, and the history channel. I just started getting a new channel that plays all the old shows. Andy Griffith, The Big Valley, Have Gun will Travel and the like. You remember those, when television was entertaining.
 This thought came to mind yesterday when an old acquaintance of mine posted a meme about fighting. I don't recall exactly what it said, but it reminded me of something I heard Lucas McCain, of The Rifleman show, tell his son Mark. He said, Mark a real man doesn't run to a fight, but he doesn't run from one either ! Words of wisdom that I carry with me to this day. Back in those days you often heard sage advice like that. Father knows best and Leave it to Beaver taught life lessons while entertaining you. Those kids were always doing something you could relate to. They didn't get in as much " trouble " as you did and their parents didn't spank, but you knew that was television.  Television Dads are a bit more understanding and wise, although you wouldn't dare say that out loud. Now, real world Dads wanted you to learn the same lessons that were being taught in those shows, they just didn't have the same patience as Mr. Cleaver or Pa on little house. Well at least mine didn't and didn't find too much humor in my antics.
 Are there any lessons you remember learning from those old shows ? Yes, I guess they were a bit corny and unrealistic but they entertained. Good always won out over evil. Seldom was anyone fatally shot, except when they needed shooting that is. The women folk were treated with respect and given special consideration. Well there were exceptions. Victoria Barkly and Miss Audra were routinely mistreated by criminals on the Big Valley. Usually they ended up forgiving those criminals though. Those shows were all about teaching us a lesson. There were a reflection of what we were being taught at home. I don't think it is that way anymore. Like I said, I don't know what the kids are watching these days. Do you think television is as big an influence as it was back when we were kids ? I'm thinking that it is not. Social media and the internet have taken over that position. My heroes were on the " small " screen. I watched them in my living room in black and white. The messages  were always black and white. Right and wrong, good vs evil. Right was right, always. Good always prevailed in the end. Sometimes all that was needed was a prayer. We said goodnight with The Waltons. Hard work, believing in yourself, and prayer. Those were the lessons being taught. You had to do for yourself before you could do for anyone else. That was the noblest of causes, doing for others with no expectation of return. Independence is fundamental thing to being an American, and you have to be independent to be that !
 We called it the boob tube, but was it really ? In some ways yes I suppose it was. In other ways it may have been a form of subliminal messaging. I know I learned some things from those shows. I learned about diversity and different cultures. We watched the variety shows and was introduced to many things through that medium. I can remember seeing those " Beatles " on the Ed Sullivan show. Bunch of long haired freaks ! Mom and Dad couldn't believe it. That was countered with the Lawrence Welk Show, wholesome family entertainment. But somewhere along the line the focus shifted to generating revenue. We all know what really sells. The internet is full of that ! Ah, but it has always been so and that will never change. There is always reruns !  

social expectations

 I guess I have reached that age, I'm a senior. I always knew it would happen but ain't sure I like it. There is nothing to be done about though. Mom is getting on , as the saying goes, and I had to be stern with her yesterday, a strange and unsettling feeling. It marks the beginning of me having to be an adult ! Oh man, I'm not happy about that either. Mostly though it is this disconnect with the young folks that I find troubling. The group I mean is the twenty somethings that think they have all the answers. Apparently they don't know it all or they would know my generation solved it all in the 1970's. Peace, love  and rock and roll. It was groovy. I do wonder what is missing today. I also have a theory, I almost always do. I'm thinking it is the lack of expectation that is the causing the confusion.
 When I was growing up I was made aware of what was expected of me. There were certain standards to be met. If you didn't meet them, you failed ! No medals, no trophies, no participation award, you failed ! You were not expected to win but got rewarded when you did. Oh, I was encouraged and reassured that I could do it, within my limitations, but it was always a surprise when I succeeded. That was why you got an award ! It is a subtle thing isn't it ? That is the way it was with academics and sports. Now, social expectations were a different matter altogether. Please and Thank You were not only expected, they were mandatory. Polite, cordial behavior was the expectation and strictly enforced. That is where the old saying, " it takes a village " came into play. Behaviors counter to what was expected would be met with discipline by any adult, at any time. Worse still, it was reported to your parents. A report to your parents caused them embarrassment. That would not be tolerated. The result may be your removal from all social activities, IE: grounding. If you don't know how to conduct yourself in public You were removed.
 And so my theory is this. By the removal of social expectations, we are destroying society. A society simply cannot exist unless everyone is on the same page. Today I see far too many angry over the past. It is unreasonable to expect society today to take blame for the injustices of the past. No one is denying that the injustice occurred. I see far too many that claim entitlement. That entitlement claim may also be based upon the past, again an unreasonable expectation. The biggest thing I see is this idyllic situation were Everyone is Equal, except for anyone that has been subject to an injustice in the past. In that case they should receive preferential treatment today. They get a pass on social expectations. In fact the more anti-social they behave, the more reward they should receive. To do otherwise is a clear indication of discrimination.
 Without going into a long dissertation of civil rights in America I think it is safe to say great strides have been made. Is any one race barred from participating in the society ? I don't think so. That it was true as late as the 1960's can not be refuted. That injustice was corrected. It is over. You can make laws but you can't legislate people. People will discriminate, for a myriad of reasons, and they always will. Punishment is mandated when that law is violated. What more can be done ? Social expectations should be taught ! That is what I am saying here, We need to instruct our children in social expectation within the American society. In other words, how to behave themselves. That action begins in the home. I'm just saying I was taught what was expected of me within society. I was held to those expectations and held accountable when I violated them. There was no excuse except for one, you had to be right ! If you were correct in your action you would be rewarded. You did however have to act within the constraints of society. Acting contrary to that was not encouraged and in some cases plain illegal. Nowadays the news calls that social unrest, and that doesn't sound so bad. It is an attempt to mollify those acting out. That wasn't the action I received when I created " social unrest. " Well, guess I am a senior after all and have reached adulthood. Took me a few years to learn that but I was taught. It needs to be taught again is my opinion. Yes unrest effected changes in the laws and that was a good thing. There is a subtle difference between then and now. Back then it was all about what wanting to be equal and having the same opportunity as everyone else in the society we call America. What is it all about today ? What folks feel is " owed " to them is my answer. The opportunity is there should anyone wish to take advantage of that opportunity. There are many programs in place to assist. The system has been changed, equality under the law has been achieved. All that remains is for those folks to act within the constraints of society. Takes time and effort. Some will be disappointed and some will fail. Neither is an excuse for not meeting the social expectations of our nation. Be an American. Meet those expectations and you will have succeeded in life. At least that is what I was taught. There will always be people with more money, more popularity and more talent. Get over it and move on.     

silent resignation

 Mother and daughter sat on a bench outside their home on Floyd street. They were talking about the news of the war. The daughter, whose name is Lucy, had received word that her grandson was drafted. Now the grandson lived with her, as her daughter had passed the day after giving birth to him. He had an older brother, already in the war, and now he must go. Her heart was heavy and her Mom was offering consolation. Her grandfather had fought in the civil war, and she had sons that fought in world war one. She knew of war and death. The boys father died on a trip to Florida from a ruptured appendix, that was back in '32. Ten years had passed and now she had to watch the youngest go off to war. Off to California, across the country, to some base called March Field. Something to do with airplanes is all she knew.
 They sat side by side, hands folded in their laps, resigned to whatever fate would bring. They remembered when the house was built back in 1884. It was the dream of a lifetime. A fine two story house on a corner lot. Lucy was just fourteen then and full of hope and dreams. She would get married in that house just four years later. By 1904 she would have three daughters, Sarah, Jesse and Clara. She had married Floyd Parker Lester, an old name and old family. He operated the " Maidstone Taxi " service. It was a struggle to feed and clothe three daughters and care for the horses. It was the beginning of the twentieth century and automobiles were coming into usage. It was that that led to his bankruptcy. Well, at first one horse died and he couldn't afford to replace that, combined with fewer fares it spelled the end. He lost his home and everything he owned. He moved into his in-laws house in shame. The father in law, James, signed the house over to Lucy, his youngest daughter, to have as her sole possession. Floyd was not to have any ability to sell or mortgage that property. He had failed in business and could not be trusted. All that was years ago.
 Now it was 1944 and mother and daughter sit there. Clara, the youngest had passed away in '24 Mother to two boys. Those boys would stay with Lucy, in the big house on the corner lot. Grandfather James, Jim as he was known about town, had passed in 1917. Agnes, wife to James, mother to Lucy, sat in silence. She was thinking about her own father, Abraham Miller King. He was a round the world whaler. A sea going man that rounded the horn three times. She remembered the times, as a child, she waited for PaPa to come back. He passed in 1902, forty two years ago having taken his final voyage. She remembered in 1914 when the first world war broke out, the war to end all wars. Her sons had fought in that war. They had returned, by the grace of God. And now she sat here with no more words to be spoken. They sat in silent resignation to whatever the future may bring.
 I have that picture upon my wall. The picture was probably taken after the war, after my father had returned. I can not be certain of that as there is no one left to tell. Uncle Fred, grandma Lucy's brother, was a photographer and more than likely took the shot. As I look at that picture, having not known either one of them personally, although grandma Lucy once held me I am told, that is what I imagined they might be doing. They both appear resigned to me and I can't really explain why. Perhaps it is more contentment than resignation. I don't know, I just think that we resign ourselves to life and that brings contentment. Resignation is the act of accepting what is undesirable but inevitable. No mother wants to see their children go off to war. No one wants to lose the ones we love.

action, not heritage

 One glib comment and a discussion begins. Seems like that is the way of it for me a great deal of the time. I try, I really try not to respond to certain postings but fail miserably. I just can't help it. Yesterday was no exception. I saw a posting about the U.S. Women's gymnastic team. The posting was pointing out that they were African-Americans, Jewish-Americans, Puerto Rican-Americans, White-Americans and being coached by a Romanian-American. Whereas it is a valid observation my comment was simply, " I would prefer them called " American " women.
 I admit this response was elicited by the statement from the original post saying, " this is who is making America great again " a thinly veiled reference to Donald Trump. Now I don't support Donald Trump in any fashion whatsoever but my point was a simple one. It is Americans that make America great. I received a response almost immediately saying she felt the post labeled them that way to show diversity and the American at the end to show unity. From that, the discussion began.
 I know the other person responding to my comment. I also know she is a very cordial person and it was safe to discuss the topic with her. We are often at odds in the political arena. It is discussion however and not an attempt to bash each other. She does make me think and I appreciate that.
 And so I presented the basis for my " argument. " I feel as though all this hyphenated American stuff is contributing to the division in this country. I believe we should all be Americans first. Why does someone choose to emigrate ? To go to a better place is the simple answer. That is the bottom line isn't it ? In doing so shouldn't you assimilate to that culture ? If you don't want to be an American, what are you doing in America ? But that is too basic isn't it ? We have our cultural pride. We wish to display that pride. That is the problem however. We use that heritage to quantify ourselves. What we should be using is our actions, not a heritage. The primary reason to use a quantifier is to do what ? To create a distinction. That is its' sole purpose. When it comes to race, most times, it is obvious and really doesn't require that quantifier. Using your religion to quantify yourself serves what purpose ? To separate yourself from the majority of Americans ( in this context ) Christians. One Gallup poll shows that 77% of Americans are Christian or identify themselves as Christians. Incidentally we don't identify ourselves as Christian-Americans. No, we are just Americans. All of us have emigrant roots ! Every single one of us. So, why this emphasis on that heritage ? My view is, to gain advantage in some fashion. It is either to elicit sympathy or to " qualify " for one thing or another.
 I believe that if we quit labeling each other, or self identifying as the jargon goes today, we would foster a climate of unity rather than one of division. The reason is a simple one to understand. We all know who we are, what our heritage and roots are. We all know who we believe ourselves to be, good, honest, hard working folks that just want equal footing in this world. The reality is, you are what other folks label you ! Let that sink in. You are what others say you are. Whether that is fair and just is not the point, it is a reality. All this, I am a, ( fill in the blank,) American does nothing to foster acceptance. It is more of a, " in your face " attitude. Personally I really don't care what your religious beliefs are, I can usually guess at your race. What I do care about is who you are. I need to get to know you before that can happen. Your religion or your race should not be your identifier !
You know what I want ? I want you to be an American. That's all. The big question, the white elephant in the room so to speak, is identifying just what an American is. To me, it is far more than someone that lives in the United States.
 First and foremost I believe Americans are all religions and races. Wasn't that the founding principle behind this republic ? Independent peoples yearning to be free and all that. That the majority of them were Christian is a matter of history. Of course, even that is debated today but that is another discussion altogether. Most Europeans were Christian, nothing discriminatory about that. Religion, like politics incite strong emotions. The founders of the Republic knew it, hence separation of church and state. Americans have always been free to practice their religion or not, as they saw fit. Should we now begin to identify ourselves as Methodist-Americans or Episcopal-Americans ?  Should I proclaim myself to be an Atheist-American ? Is one more American than another ? In Ireland the protestants and Catholics have been feuding for centuries. Is one more Irish than the other ?
 It is also a fact that the majority of the founders of this nation were white folks. Well that is because they were Europeans. Simple as that. They had the means and the money. Nothing much changes in the world. Those with the means and the money usually get their way. Yes, those same Europeans enslaved their fellow man. They were not the first to do so and the practice continues till this day. Oh the last place to make it illegal occurred in 2007 but the practice continues, thinly veiled. It doesn't justify their actions then or excuse it today. Still,  in the big picture people of color were not excluded from being Americans. No where was it ever written that you had to be white or Christian.
 So just what is an American ? An American is Independent, not dependent. An American is not dependent upon his religion, his race, or anything else to gain an advantage. Some of us are American by birthright ! That includes all religions and all races. If you are born here, you are an American. With that birthright comes obligation. You owe your country allegiance, your country does not owe you a thing. America has always welcomed those seeking a new life. You are welcome to become an American ! The only caveat is that you are solely American. 
The following United States Oath of Citizenship must be taken by all immigrants who wish to become naturalized citizens of the United States:

I hereby declare, on oath,

• that I absolutely and entirely renounce and abjure all allegiance and fidelity to any foreign prince, potentate, state, or sovereignty of whom or which I have heretofore been a subject or citizen;
• that I will support and defend the Constitution and laws of the United States of America against all enemies, foreign and domestic;
• that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same;
• that I will bear arms on behalf of the United States when required by law;
• that I will perform noncombatant service in the Armed Forces of the United States when required by the law;
• that I will perform work of national importance under civilian direction when required by the law;
• and that I take this obligation freely without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion; so help me God.

In acknowledgement whereof I have hereunto affixed my signature.

It doesn't say you will be an African-American, or Muslim-American or any thing other than a naturalized citizen of the United States of America ! Notice it doesn't say you become an American. That is because that is up to you. It is an Independent action. So, I say quit this creating division and distinction. Let's all be Americans and as Americans we can solve our differences rather than just label them.
  

a curiousity

 As anyone that reads these postings of mine knows, I'm into genealogy. I have spent countless hours researching my ancestors and discovering facts about them. Every once in a while I do stumble upon something personal to them, a letter or a card, that sheds some light into the darkness of the past. Those are always the most exciting thing. Just a few days ago I made contact with a gentleman whose grandfather flew with my father during the war. He has shared some photos with me. The most exciting thing he has shared is the flight log that his grandfather kept. This log details the missions they flew. My own dad seldom spoke of the war, or his missions. Now I have been given a window into that world. Providence has smiled down upon me and I'm sure Dad is too. I will dissect that log book to learn as much as possible. I feel a strange obligation to do so.
 I do have many pictures on my walls. I believe in displaying all the ancestors. I find it somehow comforting to know they are looking at me. I have come to know their names and can explain the relationships one to another. I have a picture of my 3rd great grandfather on a tintype standing beside his brother. I have a picture of my Swedish ancestors, taken in Sweden. I have brothers and a sister. I have aunts and uncles. I have nieces and nephews and their children. Something we seldom consider is when we become grand uncles and grand aunts. All of these are on my walls and in my heart. As I looked at them this morning it occurred to me, there are many I have never met. You say, that's not unusual, after all they are ancestors. True, but I wasn't thinking about ancestors, I'm thinking about the nieces and nephews and their children. I have their photographs but have never met them personally. Well, some I have, but years ago and I'm sure they don't remember much. Do children pay attention to old people ? Not so much I think unless you are really old, then you become a curiosity. At least for me it worked that way. Ancestors are curiosities aren't they ? I hadn't considered that before. Now I'm thinking I may wind up a curiosity unless I take some action. I guess these blogs may serve that purpose should they be discovered by those interested in learning about me. I'm still here and still kicking !
 In making discoveries about my own ancestors I have learned some basic facts. The census provides a wealth of knowledge, sometimes newspaper clippings and other publications. For the majority of them I can provide a brief synopsis of their lives. They say very little about the person though. How can we know ? I have great, great grandmothers Bible. Judging by the dog eared pages and notes in the margins she studied that book. My 3rd great grandfather was a whaler. Made three trips around the horn was his big claim. But do those things define those folks ? Surely there was much more to them. Great, great Grandfather James was a civil war veteran. Just what was his politics ? Why did he go to war ? Was he drafted into service, or volunteer for the cause ? So many questions without answers.
 I am fortunate that we have this social media. I can contact those folks wherever they are in the world. It is a quick and easy thing to do, much better than the past. We can learn about each other and share. The whole thing is a matter of interest. If they are interested in knowing you. I don't want to become a curiosity. Do we make connections based solely on interest ? Yes, I think we do. The relationship is based upon sustaining that interest. But what can I offer of interest to these children ? I'm just an old guy that knows their Mom and Dad. With the grand nieces and nephews that isn't even the case. I'm just the brother to their grandmother ! For small children and young adults there isn't much of interest here. They are interested in the physical interactions, not a cerebral one. I get that. What I mean is, if I lived close by and could bring them gifts and play games with them, they would be interested. That is human nature.
 I don't know, maybe all these pictures on the wall get me thinking too much. I don't want to end up as an old photograph. I don't want someone staring at me and saying, who is that ? I want them to say, that man is Ben. Let me tell you all about Ben, he was an interesting character. Yes, I want to be remembered in that way. I think we all do. I do not wish to define my own character, that should form all on its' own, but I'll try to influence it. Shakespeare was right when he said, each of us must play our part. We really are characters on the stage. I'm not interested in playing the lead but I'm not an extra either ! I do think we should be introduced to as many cast members as possible. Even if we have to make the introduction. If we want to be remembered we do need to do something memorable. I'll have to think about that for a while.  

locking the door

 I was talking with my mother, who is now 86, about the old home town. It is always a comfort to share memories, wrap yourself up in them like a favorite blanket. We both agreed that was another time and place and will never be again. There was no sorrow associated with that thought, just resignation. Resigned to reality is the best way I can describe it. We shared a particular memory that did reflect upon the past. We remembered when they replaced the big old wooden doors at St. Lukes church with glass ones. The old folks couldn't believe it. Those new glass doors did allow you to see inside at night, with the lights shining down upon the altar. It is a beautiful sight. But we both also remembered when those doors were never locked. I haven't walked up the steps to St. Lukes in many years but expect the doors are not left open anymore. A sign of the times I would suppose. I know that the churches here lock their doors at night and it is a sad reality that it is a necessity.
 After our conversation I thought about that for a while. What has changed , on a fundamental level, to necessitate such a thing ? One can only assume the fear of God is not being taught any more. Or is it that the reality of God is not being taught ? The later would seem to be the case. When I was young I heard no one deny the existence of God. I heard those that said he didn't interfere with what was going on in the world and would therefore take a chance. Some became desperate enough to " risk " it. I never heard anyone say there wasn't a God though. It must be this removal of consequence that compels folks to steal from a church. I mean, I was taught that a church, or synagogue is the house of the lord ! We didn't have any mosques where I grew up but they would certainly have qualified also. I don't know, it wasn't exactly a conscience thing, this fear of God, but it was a possibility. A lightening bolt may strike you at any second. Misbehaving in church was really taking a chance, to sneak in and steal was to invite your doom. The God I heard about would " loose the fateful lightening of his terrible swift sword, his truth is marching on " and you don't mess with that ! That was indeed a fundamental reason for doing what was right. Today it seems we like to hedge our bets a bit more. We are not teaching our children to be " steadfast " anymore. Now being open minded is the mantra. Being steadfast is considered being stubborn, or worse. But are they the same thing ? I don't believe so. Steadfast is being resolute or dutifully loyal. When it comes to certain things I would rather be steadfast. Take love for instance. Would you rather someone be " open minded " about their love for you or be " steadfast " in that love ? The answer is a no brainer isn't it ? Does that make the person stubborn ?
 It does appear to me that the action of being " steadfast " is shown in a different fashion today. It is usually accompanied by protests, petitions and in some cases violence. No longer are we quietly firm in our beliefs. We do feel compelled to defend those beliefs. Was a time we felt compelled to act in accordance with those beliefs, that was the primary mission. That is why we didn't steal from the church, it was a fundamental belief. That action was sure to bring the wrath of God down upon you ! If it wasn't immediate, a distinct possibility, you knew it was waiting for you. We have grown cynical and that is the problem. That cynicism is expressed by the locking of the door. Now, it is expected.  I'm certain there are churches that still have there doors open, but it is the reality that some must lock that door that I find sad.